When one reads the Silmarillion, the Christian background of the books becomes more obvious, but I think that in the Hobbit especially, and even the trilogy, that aspect is one you'd have to look for if you wanted to find it. In the states, many people seem to be under the impression that those four books make up the body of Tolkien's work, or at least have never bothered to explore beyond them. Their impressions exist solely within the framework of the books themselves, without much real knowledge of any works beyond them or of the author himself. (Many people I know never bother to find out anything about the authors of books, in order to better put them into context.) It's too bad, really, but looked at in that light, instead of digging deeper, they make their judgements, and I think a lot of people here can also be a bit reactionary, as might be obvious, so things can get out og hand rather quickly.

I agree that it is sad that some people prefer watching the movies only and not reading the books. But at least they have been turned on to the Lord of the Rings. Such a great story cannot be denied and if some people choose not to read the books and watch only the movies, well, I guess that is their choice then.

At least we know that there are millions of Tolkien fans around the world, I for one, who will hopefully remain fans forever.